If you have a sex doll, or you fall into the doll-curious category, then you are part of a rapidly growing group. In 2024, the sex doll market was estimated at around $4.67 billion (USD - yes, really). A lot more than you thought, right?
There are lots of reasons why: Today’s sex dolls are light years ahead of the old inflatable love dolls that spring to mind for many people. And attitudes towards sex toys continue to change; people are much more open and accepting than ever before.
Between much more sophisticated materials and innovative designs and features, it comes as no surprise that the sex doll market has exploded in recent years. All of this means more people are buying them, and quickly learning that regular cleaning is absolutely necessary.
There’s a right way to do it. If you want to keep your doll in optimal condition–looking and feeling like it did when you first unpacked it–here’s what you need to know:
What You Need for Proper Cleaning (You Probably Already Own Most of It)
A proper sex doll cleaning process doesn’t require any fancy tools or products. Chances are, you’ve already got all the cleaning materials you will need, basic household items like a mild soap (ideally, an unscented and antibacterial soap) and a soft sponge or soft cloth, and a soft towel.
A small squeeze bottle comes in handy for rinsing internal areas, and a dry towel is a must for patting everything down after the wash. A bit of baby powder or talcum powder gives the doll’s skin a soft, smooth finish and helps prevent stickiness.
Now, what to avoid? Anything harsh. That means bleach, rubbing alcohol, rough sponges, wire brushes—if it sounds like something you’d use on a greasy engine, keep it far away from your doll. You’re cleaning for care, not scrubbing for punishment. Treat the material like skin, because in this case, that’s basically what it is.
Sex Doll Cleaning, Step by Step
Step 1: Wash the Body
Start at the top. Dampen your cloth or sponge with soapy, warm water and work your way down. Remember to pat gently—think more “spa day,” less “scouring pad.”
Focus on areas where skin folds or things tend to get steamy. Underarms, behind the knees, between the thighs—get in there. If you see a smudge or stain, apply a little more soap and take your time. No hard scrubbing. You’re preserving texture, not trying to erase a crime scene.
Step 2: Handle Holes With Care
Not the sexiest part of the routine, but easily the most important. Use a squeeze bottle to flush warm soapy water into each love hole—vaginal, anal, oral. Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward.
Keep flushing until the water runs clear. It might feel repetitive, but trust us—it’s better than discovering a science experiment in your doll’s tunnel a week later.
If you’re all about shortcuts, consider using a female condom during play. It won’t kill the mood, and it’ll make cleanup way faster.
Step 3: Dry It All Down
Once you’re done rinsing, pat the doll dry with a towel. Don’t rub. Take your time. You especially want to make sure the tunnels are dry. Then let everything air dry. If that means propping your doll up awkwardly in the corner of your room for a few hours, so be it. You do what you gotta do.
Once the skin’s dry, dust on a bit of baby powder. It’s not just about softness—this helps prevent the skin from getting tacky or picking up lint and dust like a magnet.
Step 4: Smart Storage = Longer Life
Storing your doll right is half the battle. Keep them in a neutral position—arms relaxed, legs slightly apart. No tight yoga poses, no weird bends that’ll leave a permanent crease.
Avoid direct sunlight. UV light messes with the skin over time, especially on TPE dolls. Also? Skip tight or dark clothing. They stain. And once it’s there, it’s probably not coming out.
Most importantly, don’t put your doll away damp. Dry means really dry. Let them breathe before you tuck them in.
Avoid These Rookie Mistakes
Doll care isn’t complicated. But there are some missteps that could turn a simple routine into an expensive mistake. One of the biggest culprits is excessive cleaning; scrubbing the entire surface too aggressively or using products that aren’t meant for skin can actually cause real damage.
The material covering your doll's body is designed to feel lifelike. It is delicate. Cleaning should feel more like a skincare ritual than a deep clean.
Another one to watch out for: forgetting the dry-down. It’s not enough to give the doll a quick pat and toss her in the closet. Make sure everything is completely dry, especially the internal areas. Moisture left in love holes or trapped around the doll’s head or joints is basically inviting bacterial growth (to places you really, really don’t want it). Don’t store your doll somewhere hot, humid, or cramped.
Treat storage like part of the aftercare—clean, dry, neutral position. If something feels off during the process, trust your gut. A little hesitation usually means you’re about to make a mistake.
Common Sex Doll Questions, Answered!
Can I shower with the doll?
You can rinse it, sure—but full-on shower? Only if it’s waterproof and electronics-free. Protect the head and anything that moves or plugs in.
How do I deal with stains?
Act fast. Soap, cloth, dab. Not scrub. It may fade over time. Some stay. It's part of the journey.
Do I really need baby powder?
It’s optional—but you’ll notice the difference. Softer feel, less stickiness, and a bit of a boudoir vibe.
Ready to Level Up Your Toy Game?
Stag Shop isn’t just the go-to for keeping your doll in top form—we’re Canada’s original adult fun store, and we’ve got an entire playground waiting for you.
Curious about what else is out there? Our Dildo Sex Toys collection runs the full spectrum—from sleek and minimalist to bold, textured, and packing a little extra curve. Prefer a more interactive twist? Long Distance Bluetooth Sex Toys let you sync up with a partner because connection shouldn’t have borders. And if you're looking for toys built with queer intimacy in mind, our lineup of Lesbian Sex Toys is all about celebrating your body and your pace.
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